By Grace Gilo
National Assembly Speaker, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Moses Wetang’ula has reaffirmed the strong bilateral relations between Kenya and Qatar, which span across key sectors including labour, trade and tourism.
During a courtesy visit from the Ambassador of Qatar to Kenya, H.E. Mohammed Mutair Al-Shamlani Al-Anzi, Speaker Wetang’ula acknowledged Qatar’s significant role in supporting Kenya’s labour force, noting that thousands of Kenyans are currently residing and working in the Gulf nation.
“Kenyans are law-abiding citizens and serve as informal ambassadors for our country across the globe,” he remarked.
In their discussions, the two leaders emphasized the importance of enhancing labour mobility between the two nations.
They explored strategies to streamline pre-departure processes for Kenyan job seekers to ensure smoother transitions and greater protection for migrant workers.
Ambassador Al-Anzi expressed Qatar’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Kenya, particularly in tourism, trade, transport, and agriculture.
“In the area of trade investment, one key sector we must capitalize on is the export of fresh produce,” stated the Ambassador.
Speaker Wetang’ula, in response, urged the Ambassador to continue supporting Kenya’s efforts to strengthen trade relations, highlighting the substantial presence of Kenyan workers in Qatar and the mutual benefits of closer cooperation.
To further cement inter-parliamentary ties, the two parties agreed to form Parliamentary Friendship Groups between the National Assembly of Kenya and the Consultative Assembly of Qatar.
These groups will promote dialogue, share legislative knowledge and advance shared interests for the benefit of both countries.
Kenya and Qatar established diplomatic relations in 2003 and have consistently worked to strengthen their partnership across multiple sectors.